Jim Oakes has spent his life solving complex problems — as an industrial engineer, an Air Force officer, and a healthcare technology consultant. But when he faced the loss of his wife, Peggy, and the question of how to live well on his own, the answers came from an unexpected place: the neighbors down the hall at Arbor Terrace Herndon.
In a new Positive Aging Community interview with host Steve Gurney, Jim shares how he made the move to our independent living community, built a real circle of friends, and found that this season of life can still be purposeful and full.
His days are shaped by choice and connection, from resident-led "Story Night" every Monday to chair volleyball with the "Screaming Squirrels" to teaching the next generation of health informatics students at George Mason University. Along the way, Jim offers candid, practical wisdom on grief, guilt, and new beginnings that will resonate with anyone weighing a move for themselves or a parent. Watch the full interview to hear his story in his own words.
https://www.retirementlivingsourcebook.com/videos/finding-community-and-purpose-in-the-next-chapter